[Entrepreneurial Story] - Damien Grangiens

Hello, I’m Damien Grangiens from Cohort 19, former vice-president of the 4L Trophy. I did a great exchange in Dublin, Ireland, to discover what was already being called 'data-driven marketing'. I was then quickly recruited for a fairly 'classic' career path, starting with Mars, followed by Procter & Gamble and then Princes Foods, a leading food group in the UK, to manage the FR subsidiary (with team management in FR and internationally). This is a huge paradox as these large groups often look to recruit a very standard profile, and I am anything but that! This, however, is definitely what allowed me to make big differences. In parallel and for 4 years I wanted to be an entrepreneur in addition to my salaried job in order to understand all the stages of creation, from the validation of a project to excellence in delegated execution and I therefore created 2 companies: one in France and one abroad (in Thailand with a co-founder). Today, since July 2022, I am 100% entrepreneur: it brings me a lot of joy! 

• Can you tell us a bit more about your profession?

I have created a selective solution, SIO, which brings together the best freelance experts in administrative management based in France to provide a serene, concrete and flexible response to company directors and solopreneurs who are overwhelmed by administrative tasks but who can’t afford to hire assistants on a traditional employment contract. Today, nearly 9 out of 10 business leaders say they are behind in these areas, but don’t have the possibility of recruiting for these positions under an employment contract. We open to the public on 20 November 2022! 

• What are the values you uphold in your work?

Vision / Empowerment / Discipline / Smart risk / Energy and fun.

• What is your greatest achievement/pride (professional and/or personal)

Personal: I'm just happy to have as much fun as possible while retaining my integrity and never seeing things in black and white. The ability to see nuances can change your life.

Pro: Having helped several of my colleagues to realise their qualities and change their lives and enjoy what they do. Management is one of the most rewarding things you can do in business. 

• What advice would you give to a young graduate who would like to follow your career path?

Don't be afraid to be yourself and play on your differences to turn them into strengths and…have fun while doing it. For those who choose to work for a company, it’s a great opportunity for security. Dare…and enjoy it.

• Do you have a hidden talent?

I have lived for more than 4 months on less than 40 euros/month. I think I'm ready for the new post-inflation economy!

• Anything else to add?

I believe that a new economy that is taking shape will require us to transform our behaviour. I look forward to helping other students and graduates from Rennes School of Business members if the opportunity arises!

Connect with Damien on LinkedIn